Press Conference by Foreign Minister on European Parliamentary resolution on child abduction in Japan

European Parliamentary resolution on child abduction in Japan

[Radio France Nishimura] This week, a resolution was passed in the EU Parliament on the issue of children being taken away by Japanese parents. How does the Japanese government take this resolution?  The image of Japan overseas is clearly deteriorating as it has become a very serious problem, so are you thinking of any specific action?

[Minister of Foreign Affairs Mogi] I am aware that the resolution has been adopted. On top of that, I think that it is necessary to separately consider cases that are subject to the Hague Convention and cases that are not subject to the Hague Convention.  The Japanese government has dealt with cases in Japan that are not covered by the Hague Convention like other countries, based on the domestic legal system, and responds fairly and equitably, regardless of nationality. Regarding cases that are subject to the Hague Convention, we have consistently and appropriately dealt with cases based on the Convention through cooperation with the central authorities of EU member states. Skeptical about our efforts or compliance, and not complying with the International Covenants do not apply at all.